Technology from Oxehealth which uses an optical sensor to detect movement, pulse and breathing rate, has benefited patients at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.
The Trust introduced the new observation protocol for checking the safety of patients with severe mental health conditions at night so that nurses no longer have to disturb patients up to four times an hour.
The hospital rooms equipped with the Oxehealth Digital Care Assistant (DCATM) observe movement and measure vital signs. Between February and April 2019, more than 5,000 observations were taken over 300 patient nights using the new protocol. An in-depth evaluation of 52 observations taken over six patient nights confirmed that the observations taken with support of the DCA were just as safe as those taken without it; and there have been no incidents related to the system.
Vanessa Odlin, Oxford Health’s joint service director for Oxfordshire, BaNES, Swindon and Wiltshire mental health, said “We have used nursing observations in mental health care for a long time, and we have always had to see patients in person. Now we do not have to do that.”
“The experience of people involved in this project has been absolutely, astoundingly positive. Patients have recognised that this is about getting a better night’s sleep and not having nurses disturb them at night by coming into their room or looking through a vision panel in the door.”
“Nurses have seen this as a way to improve their relationship with patients and their experience of the ward. The project has also shown staff that problems can be solved. We can be innovative and use technology to deliver real benefits for patients.”
Professor John Geddes, director of research and development at the trust and head of department of psychiatry for Oxford University, said “The findings show that introducing the modified protocol essentially removes the need for staff to routinely wake patients to check they are safe. It greatly improves patients’ experience at night.”
“Additionally, a survey found that 86% of patients questioned felt their privacy had improved at night, and 100% said they “felt safer” and “sleep better”.
Carol Gee, the modern matron on Vaughan Thomas ward, said “We engaged with the nursing team, patients and their families before the sensors were installed. We emphasised that they were not about replacing nursing judgement, but about giving patients a better night’s sleep and enhancing their privacy and dignity.”
“Using this technology definitely feels like a step forward. The DCA is not intrusive, and it has had a significant impact on patient care, which is what we are all working to improve. It lets people have a restful night’s sleep, while letting us carry out physical and mental health checks in a more compassionate way.”
